VH1 taps Banks, Rosenthal to make transgender reality show

U.S. net VH1 has greenlit TransAmerica (working title), a Tyra Banks (pictured) and Gay Rosenthal-produced docuseries chronicling a group of Chicago women united by the shared experience of being transgender.

U.S. net VH1 has greenlit TransAmerica (working title), a Tyra Banks (pictured) and Gay Rosenthal-produced docuseries chronicling a group of Chicago women united by the shared experience of being transgender.

The 8 x 60 minutes series will follow the women as they navigate dating, family and professional ambitions “on their own terms, in a city known for being equally modern and traditional,” according to the network. It is slate to premiere either late this year or in early 2015.

The show is exec produced by Banks, the creator and EP of America’s Next Top Model; Rosenthal, who previously produced VH1′s Behind the Music series, as well as shows such as Little People, Big World and Push Girls; and 3 Arts Entertainment’s Mark Schulman.

“It would be easy to focus on the transgender aspect, but this series is about so much more,” said Susan Levison, VH1′s executive VP of programming, in a statement. “This is a show about a group of compelling, gorgeous young friends who are on a unique journey while staying true to their authentic selves. We believe that message resonates.”

Banks added: “TransAmerica is a groundbreaking docuseries that will blow the roof off stereotypes and set the record straight as we experience the lives of these fun, stunning women. I am so happy to be a part of telling their fierce story.”